Surrogacy offers a path to parenthood for many people, including single people who want to grow their families. Though this prospect can seem daunting as a single parent without a partner, you will be far from alone. Understanding the process and being prepared for single parent surrogacy will make this experience smoother and more rewarding. The first step is to learn more about what you can expect as you navigate this life-changing journey.

Surrogacy Process for the Single Parent

As a single parent, you will go through the same surrogacy process as any other couple would at Growing Generations. This includes:

• Consultation: Your journey to parenthood starts with a consultation with one of our team members. During this meeting, you will learn more about our surrogacy program and process while we get to know you, your expectations, and your needs.

• Admissions: Once you are ready to start, the necessary paperwork is signed and administrative processes completed, securing your permission to start the surrogacy journey.

• Surrogate Match: You will go through the same surrogate match couples go through during their surrogacy process. Once you are matched with a surrogate, we will facilitate a match meeting via video conference.

• Preparing for the Pregnancy: We will prepare your selected surrogate for additional testing and embryo transfer.

• Preparing for the Birth and Beyond: When the pregnancy enters its second trimester, we will prepare you for the delivery of your child—including what to expect when traveling with your newborn back to your home.

The most important piece of this equation is your willingness and commitment to being a parent. Remember: You are not alone on this journey. The Growing Generations team will be with you every step of the way, guiding you through the process, and answering any and all questions you may have.

Challenges of Single Parent Surrogacy

Though similar in process, there are some unique challenges when taking on surrogacy as a single parent. You are faced with selecting an egg donor, shouldering the costs of surrogacy alone, and needing the support of family and friends more.

Selecting an egg donor

As a single parent, you must secure an egg donor to move forward with surrogacy. This creates an additional step to your surrogacy process, impacting both time and cost. As a surrogacy and egg donation agency, we can assist you with this process and help you find an egg donor match based on our database.

Shouldering the cost of surrogacy alone

The responsibility for paying for the cost of surrogacy falls solely on you as a single parent. Knowing and understanding surrogacy costs and creating a budget at the beginning of the process can help reduce stress. We have a team of finance experts who will work with you to find the best option for your budget.

Needing the support of family and friends

The support of family and friends on your surrogacy journey is essential as a single parent. It is their support of your choice to grow your family through surrogacy that will make this a more positive journey. Surrogacy can be an emotional roller coaster, from the initial decision to pursue it to the ups and downs of the pregnancy itself. Family and friends provide emotional stability and a lending hand when needed.

TIPS FOR PREPARING FOR YOUR SINGLE PARENT JOURNEY

Before embarking on your surrogacy journey as a single parent, it is important to ask yourself some critical questions to ensure you are fully prepared for the road ahead.

• Am I financially prepared?

• Do I have a support system?

• How will I manage my time?

• Am I ready for the emotional journey?

• What are my long-term plans?

Take the time to make these considerations before committing to this wonderful, life-changing journey to parenthood.

GETTING STARTED

Choosing to grow your family through surrogacy as a single parent is a significant decision, with both challenges and rewards. By understanding the process, planning carefully, and surrounding yourself with the right support, you can navigate the journey successfully and welcome your new child with joy and confidence. Remember, every step you take brings you closer to realizing your dream of parenthood—and the first step begins with completing your application.

Whether you’re an intended parent or considering becoming a surrogate, it can be challenging to separate fact from fiction when exploring the surrogacy journey. At Growing Generations, we want you to feel confident about your choice to pursue surrogacy. Below, we unveil the facts about surrogacy by debunking 6 of the most common surrogacy myths we encounter.

Myth #1: Women only become surrogates for the money.

One of the biggest reasons surrogates do what they do is because they believe in helping others grow a family. By becoming a surrogate, you can help someone achieve their goal of becoming a parent despite the difficulties and challenges they face. Becoming a surrogate is not an easy journey and even though surrogates are compensated for their time and effort, money is not the primary motivating factor for becoming one.

Myth #2: A surrogate shares genetic material (DNA) with the baby.

By definition, a surrogate is someone who agrees to carry a pregnancy for another person or couple, giving birth to a baby who has no genetic connection to her. Intended parents create an embryo—either with their own genetic material or that of selected donors—which is implanted into the surrogate through the IVF process. This embryo is not genetically linked to the surrogate in any way.

Myth #3: Surrogates can change their minds and keep the baby.

No, surrogates can NOT change their minds and keep the baby. Before the delivery of the baby, legal contracts about parentage are signed by both the surrogate and the intended parents. When working with a surrogacy agency, the legal counsel ensures that both parties agree on all the details of the surrogacy process. They will call out any legal risks or oddities before the surrogacy journey is undertaken.

In addition, possible surrogates undergo a rigorous screening process to assess their emotional well-being, including tendencies toward attachment. These screenings ensure that our surrogates are emotionally and mentally prepared for their surrogacy journey.

Myth #4: Any woman can become a surrogate.

Before becoming a surrogate, certain requirements need to be met. Surrogates must be between the ages of 21 and 38 years old and have at least one uncomplicated pregnancy and delivery. There are additional health requirements, lifestyle requirements, and financial requirements as well, including body mass index (BMI) restrictions.

After meeting all these requirements, potential surrogates go through a meticulous screening process that includes an in-depth online application, telephone consultation, wellness testing and evaluations, medical examinations, blood screening, a criminal background check, a personal finance review, and a check of insurance options.

Because of the nature of the surrogacy journey, these requirements are in place for the safety and well-being of both the prospective surrogate and the baby they will be carrying.

Myth #5: Intended parents control all aspects of the pregnancy.

Contrary to the myth, the surrogacy journey is built on mutual agreement, trust and understanding between intended parents and surrogates. While intended parents have preferences and expectations regarding the pregnancy, they do not have unilateral control over every decision. Surrogates maintain autonomy over their bodies and health. Their well-being and that of the baby is a priority throughout the process.

Intended parents and surrogates work together to establish clear boundaries and expectations. This collaborative approach ensures both parties feel respected and supported as they navigate through their shared surrogacy journey.

Myth #6: Intended parents don’t bond with their baby.

The bond between a parent and their child transcends biological ties. The essence of parenthood lies in love, care, and nurturing. Intended parents embarking on their surrogacy journey are deeply committed to becoming parents and are emotionally invested in the well-being of their future child.

Intended parents have many opportunities to actively participate in every step of their surrogacy journey—from selecting a surrogate to attending prenatal appointments and finally, being present at the birth. These experiences foster a deep sense of connection and anticipation as they eagerly await the arrival of their baby.

A Clearer Path Forward

Surrogacy is often misunderstood due to common myths and misconceptions. Debunking these myths can foster a greater understanding and support for intended parents and surrogates alike. Having an open mind, a clear view of the facts, and a willingness to explore the surrogacy process can help you make the most of the richly rewarding journey in front of you.

If you are interested in becoming a surrogate or pursuing a path to parenthood, you can contact us by completing this form. Call us at (323) 965-7500 or email us at family@growinggenerations.com for more information.

It is not uncommon for potential and first-time surrogates to ask, "Will I get attached to the baby during pregnancy?" Though it is an understandable concern for surrogates—and sometimes, intended parents as well—the truth is that such an attachment is quite rare. 

As a surrogate, you embark on this surrogacy journey to help others build their path to parenthood. For you, it is a deeply compassionate and empathic act, motivated by helping others build and grow their families. We share other reasons you are unlikely to form an attachment to the baby you carry below.

YOU ARE NOT GENETICALLY RELATED TO THE BABY

One of the key factors differentiating surrogate pregnancy from traditional pregnancy is that surrogates understand that the baby is not genetically related to them. Because you, as a surrogate, undergo in vitro fertilization (IVF), the process ensures that the baby is genetically linked to the intended parents (or donors) and not you. This awareness—as well as undergoing the process—helps you maintain a healthy emotional distance, and reinforces your commitment to helping another family achieve their goal of parenthood.

YOU HAVE COMPLETED YOUR OWN FAMILY

You and many other surrogates choose this path precisely because you feel you have completed your own family. You feel a deep sense of fulfillment in helping others experience the joys of parenthood. Your decision to become a surrogate is driven by a desire to make a positive impact on someone else’s life rather than a longing to expand your own family.

YOU CAN MAINTAIN A RELATIONSHIP WITH THE PARENTS & BABY

Many surrogates and intended parents maintain their connection even after the baby is delivered. Surrogates and parents will have discussed the level of communication and relationship after the baby’s birth, and you may have the opportunity to see the baby again either in person or through photos and updates shared by the intended parents. The ongoing relationship reinforces the collaborative and supportive nature of the surrogacy journey, providing you with a sense of fulfillment and closure.

YOU ARE SCREENED TO ENSURE YOU'RE EMOTIONALLY READY

Before embarking on the surrogacy journey, you undergo a thorough screening process to ensure you are prepared for the experience, not just physically, but mentally and emotionally as well. Surrogacy agencies work with medical professionals to evaluate your psychological well-being and assess your ability and capacity to maintain appropriate boundaries throughout the pregnancy and beyond. These screenings help identify any potential attachment challenges and ensure that you  are equipped to navigate the emotional complexities of surrogacy with compassion and professionalism. 

While concerns about your emotional attachment to the baby are natural, the reality is that as a surrogate, you are able to maintain a healthy emotional distance from the baby. You are motivated to help others on their journey to parenthood. You approach your surrogacy journey with a sense of purpose and altruism. By debunking the myth of attachment, there is a better understanding and appreciation for the selflessness and compassion of surrogates who play a vital role in building and growing families.

If you or someone you know is interested in becoming a surrogate, you can fill out an application or contact us online for questions or more information.

Everyone’s path to parenthood is unique. However, many same-sex couples experience additional challenges as they traverse their journey to building and growing their dream family. In addition to facing biological hurdles, many gay couples also encounter legal and social obstacles. Fortunately, those barriers are breaking down, and surrogacy is becoming an empowering solution for gay couples and other members of the LGBTQIA+ community deciding to start a family. Read on to learn more about how the surrogacy process for same-sex couples puts parenthood within reach for many intended parents.

SPECIALIZED SUPPORT FOR THE LGBTQIA+ COMMUNITY

Surrogacy agencies typically offer specific resources and support services for LGBTQIA+ clients. As one of the first surrogacy agencies to service gay and single men, we at Growing Generations understand the challenges facing LGBTQIA+ parents growing a family through surrogacy.

Since 1996, our founders have worked to overcome hurdles and unique challenges faced by gay intended fathers—from navigating and improving legal systems that were designed to accommodate only “Mom and Dad” to educating doctors, professionals, and the surrogate community about gay parenting. We continue to promote inclusivity by recruiting surrogates and egg donors who are excited to help gay men become dads. Additionally, we offer resources to help our intended dads talk to their kids and communicate with their support networks about surrogacy. We also specialize in solutions for assisting HIV-positive men to become biological fathers via surrogacy.

SURROGACY AND LEGAL PROTECTION FOR GAY COUPLES

Each state has unique laws regulating surrogacy. Some states do not grant parental rights for same-sex couples, while other states do not allow or recognize surrogacy contracts at all. Understanding and navigating these complex laws is easier with the support of legal experts who can help ensure same-sex couples are recognized as legal parents from the moment the surrogate gives birth.

Essential surrogacy legal services for same-sex couples include:

• Counsel on which states are surrogate-friendly and ideal for your specific situation.

• Assistance obtaining paternity judgments that name you as the legal parent of your child with both parents’ names on the birth certificate—or just one name if you are single.

• Legal representation and assistance drafting your surrogate or egg donor contracts and family planning documents.

ESTABLISHING A BIOLOGICAL CONNECTION BETWEEN LGBTQIA+ PARENTS AND CHILDREN

With recent advancements in assisted reproduction technology and procedures, same-sex couples can safely use their own genetic material or donor biology to build a family. Most IVF clinics can use sperm from both male partners (if applicable) to have siblings from the same egg donor. They also have the ability for HIV-positive males to use their own sperm to become biological fathers.

In addition, a friend or a family member can volunteer and become an egg donor. Growing Generations is happy to connect with your chosen donor, walk her through what to expect, and help coordinate each step of her screening and egg retrieval process.

PROMOTING PARTICIPATION IN THE FAMILY-BUILDING JOURNEY

Surrogacy gives same-sex couples more freedom and flexibility to build a family on their terms with help from professionals who understand their needs. In the past, societal norms and biological constraints often limited the options for same-sex couples to build and grow their families. The surrogacy journey not only enables all individuals and couples to experience the joys of parenthood—it also empowers all participants to be actively engaged in every step of the family-building process, from selecting an egg donor to being involved throughout the surrogate’s journey.

Surrogacy fosters a sense of agency and ownership for same-sex couples as they embark on their unique path to parenthood, marking a significant stride towards a more diverse and inclusive perspective on modern family dynamics.

At Growing Generations, we pride ourselves on being there for you and your family every step of the way. Contact us to book your free consultation or financial analysis or answer any questions about the surrogacy process.

Surrogacy is an arrangement in which a woman carries a pregnancy for someone else. However, not all surrogacy is the same. In traditional surrogacy, the surrogate uses her own egg and is the baby’s biological mother. On the other hand, in gestational surrogacy, embryos are created through IVF using eggs and sperm from the intended parents or donors. The surrogate has no genetic connection to the child.

For first-time intended parents, understanding these two approaches is an important step in making informed decisions. Both paths share the same goal: helping you grow your family. This is a clear, compassionate guide to help you navigate the differences, so you can decide which path is right for you and your family.

What is Traditional Surrogacy?

Before modern science allowed for the creation of embryos outside of the womb, traditional surrogacy was the only way to conceive with a surrogate mother. This type of surrogacy has been practiced the longest. In traditional surrogacy, also referred to as “full” or “genetic” surrogacy, the surrogate is the egg donor and is genetically related to the baby she is carrying. The surrogate becomes pregnant, utilizing sperm from the intended father or donor through a process called intrauterine insemination (IUI). The surrogate carries the baby to term and since she is the biological mother of the baby, she signs her parental rights away right after delivery of the baby to the intended parents, who become the legal guardians.

Because the surrogate is also the biological mother, this pathway introduces emotional and legal complexities that can be challenging to navigate. Today, traditional surrogacy is extremely rare. Most agencies no longer offer it, since it often places additional stress on everyone involved.

What is Gestational Surrogacy?

Gestational surrogacy is the path most intended parents take and the one most agencies recommend. In this arrangement, the surrogate (or gestational carrier) carries a child created through IVF with the use of the intended mother’s or donor’s egg(s) and the intended father’s or donor’s sperm. It is then transferred to the surrogate’s uterus at the fertility clinic. The surrogate does not have genetic ties to the baby she is carrying.

This approach provides greater clarity and peace of mind for everyone. For intended parents, it can mean having a biological connection to their child. For surrogates, it allows them to support your path to parenthood without the emotional and legal complexities of being genetically related.

Genetic Differences Between Surrogacy Types

The most significant difference between traditional and gestational surrogacy lies in genetics.

With traditional surrogacy, the surrogate provides her own egg. She is not only carrying the pregnancy but is also the child’s biological mother. Because of this dual role, traditional surrogacy often brings greater emotional complexity. The surrogate may feel a stronger personal bond with the baby, and questions of parentage can become more complicated for intended parents. These factors are a big reason why traditional surrogacy is now rare and not supported by most agencies.

On the other hand, with gestational surrogacy, the surrogate has no genetic connection to the child she carries. The embryo is created using eggs and sperm from the intended parents, from donors, or from a combination of both. This means the child’s DNA comes entirely from the chosen source and not from the surrogate. For intended parents, this distinction often provides peace of mind, creating clear boundaries and simplifying legal parentage.

Many families also choose gestational surrogacy because it allows them the chance to have a biological connection to their child, even if they need an egg or sperm donor. For example, some couples are able to use one partner’s sperm or eggs, giving them a direct genetic link, while others find comfort in choosing donors whose traits or backgrounds resonate with their family story.

By removing the genetic tie between surrogate and child, gestational surrogacy creates a clear, secure foundation for everyone involved. It respects the surrogate’s role as a carrier, while protecting the emotional well-being of intended parents and ensuring that legal parentage is established from the beginning.

Medical Pathways Compared

The medical steps involved in surrogacy look very different depending on whether you choose traditional or gestational surrogacy. Understanding how each pathway works can help you see why most intended parents today choose gestational surrogacy with the support of an experienced surrogacy agency like Growing Generations.

TRADITIONAL

In traditional surrogacy, pregnancy is typically achieved through intrauterine insemination (IUI) at a clinic, or in some cases, through a home-based insemination process. Since the surrogate provides her own egg, IVF is not required. In terms of medical intervention, it might sound less complex, and it usually is on the surface.

However, simplicity often brings greater challenges later. Because the surrogate is genetically tied to the child, courts are cautious when granting parentage to intended parents. The American Society for Reproductive Medicine (ASRM) acknowledges these risks, strongly encouraging traditional surrogacy arrangements to be handled with great care because of the potential for emotional and legal complications. In addition, some states do not recognize traditional surrogacy contracts at all, leaving intended parents without legal protections.

GESTATIONAL

Gestational surrogacy follows a more advanced and carefully regulated medical process. It begins with in vitro fertilization (IVF), where eggs and sperm are retrieved from the intended parents or donors and combined in a lab to create embryos. Once healthy embryos are developed, one is transferred into the surrogate’s uterus under the supervision of a fertility specialist.

This pathway involves more medical steps, but it is highly structured and supported by strong ethical guidelines. ASRM sets clear standards around medical screening for surrogates, the number of embryos that can be transferred, and the informed consent process. These guidelines exist to protect everyone involved, ensuring the surrogate’s health is prioritized and that intended parents have the best chance of a safe and successful pregnancy.

Laws also play an important role in shaping which pathways are allowed. For example, in New York, the Child-Parent Security Act (CPSA) legalized compensated gestational surrogacy in 2021 but explicitly prohibited traditional surrogacy. This law reflects what many states now recognize: gestational surrogacy offers clearer protections and less emotional risk. The CPSA also requires detailed legal contracts, independent legal representation for both parties, and comprehensive medical and psychological screenings, aligning closely with ASRM recommendations.

For intended parents, this means that gestational surrogacy is not only the more common option but also the one most supported by medical and legal professionals across the United States.

Legal & Parentage Considerations

One of the most important differences between the two types of surrogacy is how parentage is established. In traditional surrogacy, the surrogate’s biological connection often means intended parents must complete an adoption after birth to be legally recognized. This process can be lengthy and emotionally difficult.

Gestational surrogacy, on the other hand, allows intended parents in many states to secure their rights through a pre-birth order. This ensures that their names are placed directly on the baby’s birth certificate, offering peace of mind long before delivery day. For families eager to focus on welcoming their child, this clarity makes a world of difference.

Cost Breakdown: Why Numbers Differ

Surrogacy is a significant emotional and financial investment, and the costs can vary greatly depending on the type of surrogacy you choose. Traditional surrogacy is generally less expensive on the surface because it does not require in vitro fertilization (IVF). Since the surrogate’s own egg is used, there is no need for egg retrieval, embryo creation, or embryo transfer procedures. The medical costs are lower, and fewer clinic visits are needed overall.

However, this initial cost savings often comes with increased legal fees and longer timelines due to the complexities of establishing parentage. Some intended parents also face added costs later if second-parent adoption is required to secure full legal rights.

Gestational surrogacy, by comparison, has a higher upfront cost because it involves a full IVF cycle. This includes egg retrieval (from the intended parent or a donor), fertilization in the lab, and embryo transfer into the surrogate’s uterus. These medical procedures require specialized fertility clinics, laboratory services, and highly trained staff. The cost also includes comprehensive medical screening for all parties, as well as medications for the surrogate to prepare her body for pregnancy.

Beyond the medical side, gestational surrogacy includes compensation for the surrogate, legal fees, insurance coverage, and support services throughout the journey. Although the total price tag can be higher, it reflects a carefully managed process that prioritizes safety, clarity, and the emotional well-being of everyone involved.

Pros & Cons for Intended Parents

Every surrogacy journey comes with unique considerations, and first-time intended parents need to understand both the advantages and challenges of each path. While both traditional and gestational surrogacy share the same goal, helping you welcome your child into the world, they differ in ways that can affect your experience medically, legally, financially, and emotionally. Here’s what to keep in mind:

TRADITIONAL SURROGACY

Pros:

• Typically less expensive since IVF is not required.

• The medical process is shorter and involves fewer procedures.

Cons:

• The surrogate is the biological mother, which can lead to emotional and legal complications.

• Parentage often must be established through adoption after birth.

• Many states do not legally recognize or allow traditional surrogacy.

• Rarely offered by reputable agencies due to the risks involved.

GESTATIONAL SURROGACY

Pros:

• The surrogate has no genetic link to the child, which provides clarity and reassurance.

• Parentage can often be secured before birth through a pre-birth order.

• Supported by most states and agencies, with clearer legal protections.

• Higher medical success rates due to advances in IVF.

Cons:

• The overall financial investment is higher because IVF and more medical services are required.

• The process involves more steps and a longer timeline due to fertility treatments and embryo creation.

Choosing a Surrogacy Type with Agency Support

At Growing Generations, our mission is to make your journey to parenthood as safe, supported, and joyful as possible. That’s why, like most reputable agencies, we focus exclusively on gestational surrogacy. This path protects intended parents, surrogates, and children alike, minimizing risks and ensuring that your experience remains centered on the joy of growing your family.

When you work with an agency, you’re not just choosing a medical or legal pathway; you are choosing a team that will stand beside you, guide you, and celebrate with you as you take each step toward parenthood.

Final Thoughts

Surrogacy is a remarkable way to grow a family, and both traditional and gestational surrogacy share the same beautiful goal: paving your path to parenthood. But for most intended parents, gestational surrogacy offers the clarity, safety, and peace of mind they need to move forward with confidence.

Every journey is unique. With the right support, the path ahead feels less overwhelming and more joyful. At Growing Generations, we are here to walk beside you every step of the way, from answering your very first questions to celebrating the moment you hold your baby in your arms.

If you’re ready to learn more about which surrogacy path is right for you, we invite you to connect with us today. Together, we can help you take the next step toward growing the family you’ve been waiting for.

If you miscarry or have an otherwise abnormal pregnancy, your doctor may recommend a dilation and curettage (D&C) procedure (as opposed to a natural miscarriage). A D&C can be a first-line treatment option for clearing the uterus or for instances where your body does not expel all tissue on its own. In this case, the procedure is necessary to stop bleeding and prevent hemorrhage. Like any surgical procedure, however, a D&C carries some risks. As a surrogate, it's essential that you understand the risks and benefits of this option.

 

WHAT IS A D&C PROCEDURE?

A D&C procedure usually takes just 10 to 15 minutes, but you may stay at the clinic or medical site for up to 5 hours. During the procedure, you’ll either be sedated using either a general anesthetic or given an epidural or local anesthetic. Your cervix will be dilated to allow a scalpel or vacuum into the uterus to remove tissue associated with pregnancy. This outpatient surgical procedure is generally routine and free of complications. However, as with all medical procedures, there can be risks. 

WHAT ARE COMMON D&C RISKS & COMPLICATIONS?

The most common complication of a D&C, according to the Mayo Clinic, is the perforation of the uterus. In this instance, a cutting object would inadvertently poke a hole in the wall of the uterus during the clearing of the pregnancy tissue. These perforations will usually heal on their own and only represent real concern if a blood vessel or secondary organ is damaged. 

Other potential D&C complications include:

• Damage to the cervix: It is possible for the cervix to be torn during the procedure. If this were to happen, your doctor would apply pressure to the cervix and then use stitches to repair the tear.

• Scar tissue or adhesions inside of the uterus: Known as Asherman’s syndrome, the development of scar tissue in the uterus happens in roughly 30 percent of D&C patients. This condition, which becomes more likely with each subsequent D&C, can lead to painful, absent or otherwise abnormal menstrual cycles. Additionally, it can lead to difficulty with future fertility, occasionally resulting in increased miscarriages or total infertility.

• Infection: While incredibly rare, infection can occur following the procedure. Infections are often detected by a fever or odorous vaginal discharge.

WHAT TO DO DURING D&C RECOVERY

You’ll want to pay close attention to your body after the D&C to ensure that you’re healing properly. You can usually return to your regular activities after a few days, but you may experience mild cramping and light spotting. You should wear a sanitary pad and take pain relievers if necessary. 

Your next menstrual cycle also might come early or late after the procedure. Be sure to call your doctor right away if you experience any of the following symptoms:

• Heavy bleeding

• Bleeding lasting longer than 2 weeks

• Fever

• Cramping lasting more than 48 hours

• Foul smelling discharge

• Pain that gets worse as the days progress

At Growing Generations, we understand that a miscarriage is a challenging and emotional event for both surrogates and the intended parents. We're here to support you through this difficult time. Reach out to us online at any time.